Mason Community Arts Academy music students showcased their talents at Arts by George!, the biggest fundraising event for the arts community at George Mason University, on Saturday, September 28. More than 1,000 community guests and business partners attended this annual celebration, which was organized by the College of Visual and Performing Arts.
The showcases took place between 5-7:30 p.m. in the deLaski Performing Arts Building, featuring dozens of exhibitions and performances in music, theater, dance, film and video, visual art, and computer games. The performers and exhibitors included Mason Community Arts Academy, the Green Machine, and the college’s seven academic disciplines.
“It was a joy to watch our Academy students perform for the Arts By George! guests again this year and represent us so beautifully!” said Mary Lechter, Associate Director of the Academy, who directed the Saturday’s performances. “This opportunity helps build their confidence as performers and gives our community members a chance to see the strong work that the Academy does.”
Twenty-three students and their families represented the Academy to provide our guests with an incredible night of music. Leading by Teaching Artist Caitlin Renner, eight young violinists kicked off the celebration with a selection of pieces from the first volume of the “Suzuki Violin School.” Patriot Violins, the new intermediate violin ensemble, presented a diverse selection of music including works by Bartok and “Dear Theodosia” from the musical “Hamilton” to the audience. Student pianist Chloe Lewis performed a solo piece while the guests were bidding on items in the silent auction. Lastly, the Wolfe family concluded the evening with a performance of the original song “The Distant Shore” and Celtic folk songs.
We are grateful to our staff and faculty for their help coordinating and representing the Academy, and a special thank you to our students and their families who devoted their time to support art education and enrichment among the community. The benefit raised more than $200,000 for student scholarships and community arts programs throughout the University arts programs.
“Last year, we were fortunate to receive scholarship funds from the event, which has been incredibly helpful in our support of young artists who might not otherwise be able to attend classes, camps, or lessons,” said Lechter. “We are always grateful for the chance to take part in Arts By George! and contribute to the presentations of student work.”